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Gov. Whitmer to Deliver 2026 State of the State Address on February 25
Gretchen Whitmer will deliver her final State of the State Address on Wednesday, February 25, at 7:00 PM. The address will take place in the Michigan House Chambers before a joint session of the Michigan House of Representatives and the Michigan Senate and will be broadcast live statewide.
During her 2026 State of the State address, Gretchen Whitmer will share her priorities for the year ahead, including job growth, lowering costs, investing in education, and expanding housing.
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Stay Informed - Election 2026
Your Chamber is keeping an eye on the upcoming election. As a community member, we encourage you to stay informed using official state resources, and we will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.
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Your Voice Matters!
As the leading voice of Manistee County’s business community, the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advocating for policies that strengthen our economy, support workforce development, and foster a competitive business environment.
If you or your organization are facing a legislative or regulatory challenge that affects your operations, we want to hear from you. Please use this form to request the Chamber’s support, engagement, or action on local, state, or federal policy matters.
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Networks Northwest is hosting a free informational webinar designed to help nonprofits and public entities learn how to access the IRS’s “Direct Pay” reimbursement program for clean energy projects.
Date: February 26, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM EST
This session will provide an overview of how Direct Pay works, who is eligible, and the steps organizations need to take to apply for reimbursement on qualifying clean energy investments. Attendees will gain practical guidance on leveraging this federal opportunity to support energy efficiency upgrades, renewable energy installations, and other sustainability projects within their communities.
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Economic Development Investor Spotlight :
West Shore Community College
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West Shore Community College has been a cornerstone of workforce development in Manistee County. Through its degree programs, industry-recognized certifications, and continuing education opportunities, the college plays a vital role in preparing and strengthening the workforce that supports the region’s primary employers. Their commitment to accessible, relevant education ensures that local businesses have the talent they need to grow.
West Shore Community College also recognizes the importance of proactive economic development in sustaining a strong and resilient community.
“Without intentional economic development work, Manistee County would risk losing momentum, talent, and opportunity. Economic development is about more than jobs, it is about quality of life, sustaining services, attracting investment, and creating a place where people want to live, work, and stay. This work ensures progress is intentional, not accidental.”
- Scott Ward, West Shore Community College, President
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Manistee Area Leadership Program: Government & Justice Day
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During Government & Justice Day, participants met with local leaders including members of the Manistee County Board of Commissioners, the County and City Clerk, County Controller, and the Mayor and City Manager of the City of Manistee, to learn how decisions impacting Manistee County are made.
The group also toured the Manistee County Sheriff's Office, 911 Dispatch, the Oaks Correctional Facility, and visited the Lakeshore Children's Advocacy Center to better understand the services supporting our community.
A special thank-you to our program sponsors, Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital, Filer Credit Union, West Shore Community College, our power hour sponsor, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and our Roger Vasquez sponsor Republic Services, for their continued support of the Manistee Area Leadership Program!
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Facade Grant Program
Own a property in the Manistee Downtown District? Apply for a Manistee DDA Façade Grant, which helps fund exterior renovations and restorations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis - any time is a great time to enhance your downtown property!
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Match on Main Grant Program
Beginning March 1, the Manistee Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will have the opportunity to submit two local business applications to the State of Michigan for the Match on Main Grant Program, which provides up to $25,000 in reimbursement funding for small businesses located in traditional downtown districts. The Manistee DDA will release local applications on March 2.
Businesses interested in applying or learning more should contact the Manistee Downtown Development Authority at director@manisteedowntown.com
Eligibility requirements:
Businesses must be located within the Manistee DDA boundaries and:
- Operate from a physical storefront providing face-to-face sales of products or services
- Have site control (or be able to obtain it prior to application submission)
- Be a Michigan-headquartered for-profit or nonprofit business
- Provide the required 10% cash match.
Eligible project expenses may include:
- Technical assistance and design services
- Interior building renovations
- Permanent or semi-permanent outdoor space activation
- Marketing, technology upgrades, point-of-sale systems, or operational improvements
- Inventory purchases
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| Or reach out to Nicole Kaminski at Programs@ManisteeChamber.com | | |
Business Awards Gala: Tickets Sales End February 27!
Tickets sales end on February 27 for the Business Awards Gala, presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Care Network of Michigan.
Join us for an evening dedicated to recognizing the businesses, organizations, and individuals making an impact, supporting our local business community, and enhancing the quality of life in Manistee County.
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Manistee County Restaurant Week - March 2026!
Get ready to savor the flavors of Manistee County! Restaurant Week is back, celebrating our local culinary scene with special menus, prix-fixe meals, and unique dining experiences at restaurants across the county. It’s the perfect time to try something new, support local businesses, and enjoy the dishes that make our community delicious. Don’t miss this opportunity to taste, explore, and celebrate the heart of Manistee County
If your restaurant is interested in participating please contact Nicole at programs@manisteechamber.com
Presented By: 4Front Credit Union
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Save the Date! State of the Community - April 24, 2026
Join us for this year’s State of the Community on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Little River Casino Resort for a collaborative morning centered on the priorities shaping Manistee County.
This event will bring together local business leaders, public officials, educators, healthcare professionals, and community stakeholders for breakfast, networking, and a series of panel discussions focused on the issues impacting Manistee County.
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Interested in Sponsorship?
Explore our 2026 sponsorship opportunities, designed to boost your visibility while supporting the Manistee business community.
Opportunities available for:
- Manistee Area Leadership Program
- Annual Golf Outing
- Annual Business Awards Gala
- Chamber UnTapped
- Ladies Nine & Wine
- Manistee National Forest Festival
Reach out to Nicole at Programs@ManisteeChamber.com for more information.
| | Did You Know Your Chamber Can Save You Money? | | |
Check out our Investor Benefits Packet, designed to support you and your business.
This packet highlights exclusive services, programs, and cost-saving opportunities available through trusted providers and their local partner agents, including:
- Auto-Owners Insurance programs offered through local, independent agents
- Accident Fund Workers’ Compensation solutions provided by authorized community agents
- OEO Energy Solutions
- BCN Services
- Michigan Chamber of Commerce
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